Adopt

Shiba Inu Rescue Association Adoption Process

So you've seen the beautiful, headstrong breed known as the Shiba Inu. You've looked at your living situation and decided that you are ready to open your home to a homeless Shiba. Now the question is, how do you adopt one? Below is SIRA's adoption process explained. Please read all the information as our process may differ from other shelters or rescue organizations you may have looked into adopting from. We currently CANNOT accept applications from people outside of the Midwest region. Our service area includes Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Oklahoma and Wisconsin.

The first step in adopting a rescue Shiba from SIRA is to fill out our adoption application. This allows us to find out more about you and your family, your living situation and what you are looking for in a forever friend. You must complete all applicable fields in the application and be as detailed as possible. Incomplete applications will be returned for correction. Please click HERE to complete the application. If you have any problems or questions do not hesitate to contact us at adoptsirashibas@gmail.com. ***PLEASE NOTE - APPLICATIONS OUTSIDE OF THE ABOVE LISTED MIDWEST STATES, THOSE WITH PETS THAT ARE UNALTERED AND/OR NOT UP TO DATE ON VACCIATIONS AND PREVENTATIVES AND THOSE WITH ELECTRIC/INVISIBLE FENCES WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY DENIED***
Once we receive and review your application, we will call and verify your references. All applicants are REQUIRED to provide TWO non-related references that do not reside in your home. These should be people who have been around your pets or are familiar with your pet experience If that is not possible (i.e. you have never owned pets or have not owned any for many years) please provide references who know you well.
If you currently own or have owned pets, you will need to provide us with your most recent veterinarian's information and please contact them to grant permission to release your records to Shiba Inu Rescue Association. Failure to do so will result in a delay of the adoption process.
If you are renting, you will need to provide us with your landlord's information. Please also let us know of any breed/weight/pet restrictions set by your landlord. We will be calling to verifying all information. It might be helpful to let your landlord know we will be contacting them. If we cannot verify that you are allowed to have a dog, it delays the process.
You must be at least 21 years of age to adopt.
Once the application is approved and references are checked, we will find a volunteer to perform your home visit. The volunteer will make arrangements to visit with you in your home. PLEASE NOTE: ALL FAMILY MEMBERS, INCLUDING CHILDREN, MUST BE PRESENT FOR THE ENTIRE HOME VISIT. The home visit gives us the opportunity to discuss with you and your family any issues or potential dangers for the dog (i.e. exposed wires, possible escape issues, etc. ). We can then offer suggestions of how to Shiba-proof your home and management techniques to keep the dog safe and everyone happy. This is also the time for us to find out and discuss with you exactly what your are looking for in a dog, and what will fit best with your family.
Find your forever friend! Once your home visit has been completed and you have been approved to adopt, you may begin the search for your forever friend. Email Kristi at contractssirashibas@gmail.com with any dogs you are interested in!
Foster families care for the rescued shibas in their home for an average of 6-8 weeks. They evaluate the dogs and find out how they are with adults, children, dogs, cats and other pets if possible. They know how much stimulation and activity their foster dog needs in addition to any training that may be needed in the future.
ALL POTENTIAL ADOPTERS, INCLUDING EVERY RESIDENT OF THE HOUSEHOLD AND ALL RESIDENT DOGS, ARE REQUIRED TO TRAVEL TO MEET THEIR POTENTIAL NEW DOGS IN PERSON AT THE FOSTER HOME. THERE IS ALSO A 24 HOUR WAITING PERIOD BEFORE ADOPTION CAN BE FINALIZED AND THE NEW DOG CAN GO HOME!
If you are not able to adopt the first dog you are interested in, please do not be discouraged. This does not mean you are not a good home for a rescue Shiba, it only means that there was another family who's situation was better for that particular dog. Keep looking and inquire when you see a dog you are interested in. Your perfect match is out there and you will find it. We will help you in the process!
Please note - SIRA does not adopt out dogs with the intent for them to be gifts, service animals or emotional support animals.

ADOPTION!
Once you have found your perfect match and the foster home has approved you to adopt their foster dog, an adoption day will be arranged. All resident dogs must meet potential new dogs. We require a waiting period as well. Before your forever friend comes home, you will need to be sure you have all the necessary supplies to care for your new Shiba. A Shopping Check List is available for you to use. You will be required to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian within the first 10 days of adoption and provide proof of such check up to the adoption coordinator. The final stop in the process is to sign the adoption contract and pay the adoption fee!

Adoption fees vary depending on the age of the dog and are based on the age of the dog when they entered foster care:
Puppies to 1 year = $550.00 (Please note - all puppies under 6 months are required to be foster/foster to adopts due to spay/neuter age) (Foster/Foster to Adopt = $525.00*)
Adolescent 1-3 years = $450.00 (Foster/Foster to Adopt = $425.00*)
Young Adult 4-6 years = $350.00 (Foster/Foster to Adopt = $325.00*)
Adult 7-9 years = $300.00 (Foster/Foster to Adopt = $275.00*)
Senior 10+ years = $200.00
*Foster/Foster to Adopt rate only applies if fees are paid in full within 14 days of receipt of adoption contract. Dogs already listed as available for adoption are no longer eligible for Foster/Foster to Adopt rate.
Adoption fees may be paid by check, money order, cashiers check, Venmo or Zelle only! Fees paid by PayPal are subject to a service charge.

Shiba Inu Rescue Association reserves the right to deny any applicant at any stage in the adoption process for any reason.

ADOPTABLE DOGS!

KITA - BONDURANT, IA

My name is Kita and I'm looking for my forever home! I’m 8 years old and live with my foster family in Bondurant, IA. I came to SIRA from a commercial breeding facility where it was my job to make puppies. But that life is behind me now. I’m a healthy girl – spayed and up-to-date on my vaccinations – and I weigh just under 25 lbs. This is my first time living with humans in a home. Everything is so new and overwhelming! But foster mom is proud of me for how I am adapting. I'm still very shy and cautious with people, but I'm starting to understand that I can trust my foster family. They're so kind to me, and their affection feels nice, even though it's new for me. Sometimes when I'm feeling very brave I'll sneak up to get petted - and sometimes I'll even give little kisses or hop up on the couch. When I meet new people, I'm curious, but I generally won't approach until I know them. My very favorite thing about my new life is being outside! I love to be outside – chasing the other dogs in the fenced yard or just hanging out pretending I’m a wild Shiba doing wild Shiba things. My foster mom hangs out with me. It spoils my wild fantasy when she watches me and I let her know with my very best HOWL! My perfect forever home will be a calm, quiet place where I can continue to get used to this new life. I’d love to have a couple of cozy, soft, quiet spots of my very own, and a kind person to pet me and give me a hotdog from time to time. Loud noises and sudden, unexpected movements spook me and my instincts make me want to bolt and hide. For that reason, my forever family will need to be extra-careful when opening doors. I’d really love to have a securely fenced yard of my own to play in and a nice dog-friend or two to play with, but I could probably get used to leash walks with some more practice. I’m learning how to walk on a leash. I’m still a bit nervous at first, but once I get going, I forget to be nervous. I'm good with other dogs and I pretty much ignore the cats here in my foster home, so I’d be fine with them too. I’ve met some kids and I’m curious about them, but nervous because of their sudden movements and squealy noises. I’m a very good girl when left on my own. Foster mom lets me have free run of the house and I don’t have accidents or destroy things while she’s gone. If you live in the Midwest and want to help a pretty girl like me learn to live her very best life, then visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to start the process of becoming an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn about you and your home environment so they can tell if we might be a good match. Once approved, they’ll introduce you to my foster mom, so we can meet! My adoption fee is $350.00.

FIDO - JONESBURG, MO

My name is Fido and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m a pretty 6 year-old girl, weighing 25 lbs. I came to my foster home in Jonesburg, MO, after the commercial breeding facility where I lived shut down. I came with a group of dogs and we were all terrified! You see, where we came from, humans weren’t so nice. But the humans here are kind, so I’ve been getting braver. I used to cower in the corner when my foster family was nearby. But now I don’t even run away when they approach me. I shine when I’m with other dogs, and there are lots here, including my son Morty. He’s a happy boy and watching him play has helped me relax and feel safer. I’m still pretty skittish, especially around loud noises and sudden movements, but I’m starting to let my silly side show – at least when I think the humans aren’t watching. I’m still fearful of going out in the yard on my own, so my foster parents carry me outside. We’ve practiced leash walking, but I’m just not comfortable and may never be. But I’m a good girl, and healthy too. I’m potty trained, spayed and vaccinated. I don’t make noise or cause trouble. When I’m inside, I’ll hang out in my kennel on my own. I get along well all the other dogs and I don't bother the cats. I’ve never met any human kids, but I’m pretty sure I’d be terrified of them. My perfect forever home will be with a patient family who has experience with shy/fearful dogs. I’ll need a securely fenced yard and another nice dog (or more) to help me feel safe. My forever family should know how to prevent escapes, since when I’m spooked, I might try to bolt. I’d do best in a quiet, adults-only home with no shared walls with other families, since I’m so easily scared. Can I tell you a secret? My dream would be for a family to adopt both me and my son Morty together! That would be so awesome! If you live in the Midwest and could open your home and heart to a sweet, shy girl like me, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn about you and your home so they can tell if we’d be a good match. Once approved, they’ll connect you with my foster mom so we can meet. My adoption fee is $350.00.

NANI - OLATHE, KS

My name is Nani and I’m looking for my forever home. I’ll be 4 y.o. in September and I weigh 22 lbs. I’m shy and skittish, but once I trust you, I’m affectionate, curious and playful. I love being outside - chasing bugs, birds, squirrels or the garden hose. I’m a ninja-level toy thief. As soon as another dog is done with a toy, I’ll sneak in, steal it and stash it. I love to wrestle and chase my foster dog-siblings. They help me feel confident. I copy what they do, even if I’m not sure why. There are no cats here, but I love chasing critters outside, so I may not be good with small pets. I thrive with predictable routine. I don’t like change! I’ve learned a lot at my foster home here in Kansas City. I love leash walks and car rides and adventures with the other dogs. I’m super-fast - a typical Shiba escape-artist. My forever family will need to be careful around open doors or gates. If you have a yard, I’ll need a secure fence with no gaps – not even small ones – and extra security for walks (“double leashing”). I’m a good girl in the house and stay in my crate when foster mom is out. I'm potty trained when on a regular schedule. When I first came to my foster home, I was a mess – malnourished with my ribs showing! I had seizures and tested positive for heartworm. SIRA got me the vet care that I needed, including heartworm treatment and seizure medication, which I’ll likely need for the rest of my life, as well as regular checkups and blood work. I had GI issues in the past, which resolved with special food and fluids. I’m very good at the vet. When I’m scared, I’ll snuggle into my foster mom for comfort. I’m spayed and vaccinated. My perfect forever home will be quiet and calm with a nice dog who can help me adjust and humans experienced with shy/fearful dogs. Little kids might be too much, but gentle, respectful older kids should be okay. If you live in the Midwest and want a sweet, quirky little girl like me, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to apply to become an approved adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn about you and your home to make sure we’ll be a good match. Once approved, they’ll introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet. My adoption fee is $450.00.

CARLEE - JONESBURG, MO

My name is Carlee and I’m looking for my forever home! My “must haves” are a securely fenced yard and no small kids at home. I’m 9 years old and I weigh 27 lbs. I came to my foster home here in Jonesburg, MO, from a commercial breeding facility where I lived my whole life making puppies. When the breeder had to shut down, SIRA came to rescue me along with lots of other dogs. We were all so scared at first – everything was so new and strange and different. It has taken me a while, but I am starting to realize that I think I won the lottery! There’s a big fenced yard here at my foster home that is my favorite place to be. I never knew what it was like to run free. I love to run laps around and around the yard with a big goofy grin on my face because I’m so happy! It took me a while to realize that I could trust my foster family to be kind and gentle. Humans were so scary where I used to live. But I’m getting braver! Sometimes now when my foster mom or dad holds me, or sets me down next to them on the couch, I realize that I like the attention. My wish list for my forever home includes a securely fenced yard. I’m starting to learn about walking on a leash, but I’m not yet enough of a pro for that to be my only option. There are cats here in my foster home and I’m good with them. I’d love to have another nice dog at home to help me adjust, but I’d probably do okay on my own as long as my family is patient with me if I’m shy or scared at first. If you have older quieter kids at home, that’s okay as long as they are gentle and patient with me. I think small kids would scare me too much. I’m a healthy girl – spayed and up-to-date on vaccinations. If you live in the Midwest and are interested in a goofy, sweet, happy girl like me, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt for more information and to start the application process. Applying helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can make sure we’ll be a good match. Once approved, SIRA can introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet! My adoption fee is $300.00.

ZEUS - COLUMBUS, OH

Hi, I’m Zeus and I’m looking for my forever home. Foster dad says I always look like I’m trying to remember what I walked into the room for. (Geez, thanks!) But I’m a loveable goofball - the kind of guy who is always happy to be included. I am 5 y.o. and weight 33 lbs and am being fostered in Columbus, OH. My life hasn’t been easy. I came to SIRA from a shelter with severe skin issues and missing fur. But after lots of TLC, I’m healthy and happy now. I love people. I get so excited to meet new friends that I sometimes bark while they’re petting me. I don’t want them to stop - I just have a lot of feelings! Give me time, a few treats, and some scratches, and you’ll be my best friend. If you have a snack, I’m happy to share. You can put hats on me, sunglasses, shirts - I don’t care! I’m just excited to be together. And behind my goofy face, I’m actually pretty clever. Puzzle toys, snuffle mats, and games that make me think are my favorite ways to stay busy. If I’m bored, I’ll figure out how to get into places I shouldn’t. I do best with some structure and routine, including consistent potty breaks and crate time when appropriate. I’m an easygoing guy. I love being outside, chasing tennis balls, playing tug-of-war, sniffing everything. When I’m indoors, I love to watch the neighborhood from the window like it’s a TV show. I’d be happiest as an only dog or with calm, independent dogs that don’t mind sharing. I like the dogs in my foster home, but I sometimes feel possessive around food, treats, and attention, so feeding separately and managing high-value items is important. I haven’t lived with little kids, so I don’t know what I’d think about them. I should not live with cats or small critters since I like to chase them! I’m a healthy boy – neutered and vaccinated. If you live in the Midwest and think you might be my forever person, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn if we’d be a good match. Once you’re approved, they’ll introduce you to my foster dad so we can meet! I hope you’re my new best friend! My adoption fee is $350.00.

TINA - JONESBURG, MO

My name is Tina and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m 7 y.o. and tiny, just 14 lbs. I may be small, but my personality is large and IN CHARGE! When I first came to my foster home in Jonesburg, MO, I didn’t know what to think. I’d spent my life at a commercial breeding facility where people were not nice. I was terrified, so I decided to act fierce any time foster mom or dad came near. But they were so nice and patient! They gave me space. One morning, as foster mom let me out to go potty, it dawned on me– WAIT, I feel SAFE! I stopped, turned around, and ran right to my foster mom. I gave her my best airplane ears and jumped up on her legs to tell her that I was ready for some love! So, I don’t act fierce anymore. My goofy self shines! I’m a good girl - potty trained and I keep myself busy murdering toys when foster mom is out. I love toys! Especially removing squeakers. And I love attention. Every time foster mom lets me outside, I first have to get some loving. There are lots of dogs in my foster home, and I am pretty good with them. Foster mom says I come on too strong sometimes and don’t get the hint when another dog is done playing. Okay. Fair enough. And there’s one dog named Dixie that I do NOT trust. I think I saw her give me the stink-eye once, so I tell her off any chance I get. Foster mom says Dixie is sweet and would never hurt me. But I’m not sold. So I guess I'm “dog selective.” Whatever. There are cats here too and I don’t bug them so, see? I’m a nice girl! I am healthy too – spayed and vaccinated. My forever home should be adults-only. I haven’t met any kids, but I'm pretty sure that they’d scare me and I'd act fierce again. I’d love a securely fenced yard to run in. My family should be careful around open doors because Shibas are escape artists. I’m still learning about leash walks. I’ve practiced in the yard and could be a pro in no time. If you live in the Midwest and would like a sweet, goofy, girl with a BIG personality, here I am! Visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt. The application process helps SIRA learn about you and your home environment to make sure we’ll be a good match. Once approved, SIRA will introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet! My adoption fee is $300.00.

TRAVEY - SUSSEX, WI

My name is Travey and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m just over 1 y.o. and I weigh 23 lbs. I came to my foster home in the Sussex area after I got loose, had a bit of a mis-adventure, and ended up in doggie jail. I'm still adjusting to my foster home - I love getting attention from foster mom and my favorite place to sleep is in bed with her! I'm smart, eager to please, and learn quickly. I'm potty trained and do well in my crate when foster mom goes out (though I've been known to deploy the "Shiba scream" if I'm left all alone). I love treats, which helps motivate me to learn. I have mastered leash walking. I might pull if I see a squirrel or bunny that I want to chase (I've definitely got a high prey drive). I've also learned how to jump over gates that are supposed to contain me, so my forever family will need to be careful to prevent escapes. I'm a curious girl, but new things are hard for me. I'm suspicious of new people and will bark at them. I can be reactive to other dogs when I'm out on walks. I'll be fiercely loyal to my family and will need humans who have time to focus on me too. Because I did not have a great upbringing, I'll need a patient forever family who will commit to training and teaching me how to become a well-adjusted adult. My ideal forever home will be one with a securely fenced yard - no shared walls, since I can be vocal. I'd do best in a home with no cats or small pets, since I've got a high prey drive. I get along with most of the other dogs in my foster home, but can be dog-selective, so a laid-back, easy going dog friend would be best. Foster mom thinks I'd do okay with older children once I get to know them, but I'm not a good match for really little kids. I'm a healthy girl - spayed and vaccinated. I had giardia when I came into foster care, but am recovering nicely and feeling fine. If you live in the Midwest and are looking for a best friend and diamond in the rough, then I'm your girl. Visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you to make sure we'll be a good match. Once approved, they'll introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet.

RANGER - JONESBURG, MO

My name is Ranger and I’m looking for my forever home! I am 3 years old and I weigh 20 lbs. My “must haves” are a securely fenced yard, a forever home with no small kids, and a forever family who is familiar with shy/fearful dogs. You see, I had a rough life. I came into SIRA’s care after I was abandoned by a commercial breeder at a vet’s office. The vet could tell right away that I had not been treated kindly. I was so terrified to be in such a strange and unfamiliar place that I paced frantically and snapped at the air. The vet staff saw that a few of my teeth had been knocked out and others broken. They fixed up my mouth so that I wouldn’t be in any more pain and SIRA placed me in a very special foster home to help me feel safe while I recovered. Since I’ve been at my foster home, things have been SO much better. Nobody hurts me here and there are other dogs to play with and the humans here are so kind! They’ve given me the time I needed to adjust. I was very cautious at first, but gradually I started to show my silly, playful side. My favorite things to do are to throw toys around and wrestle with the other dogs. Oh, and eat treats! Foster mom and dad give me these AMAZING beef liver treats that are so awesome. I’m smart and a very good boy in my foster home. One thing that has been tough for me is leash training. I’m really sensitive to things going over my head and around my neck – you would be too if you had been through what I have. So foster mom and dad are getting me used to a step-in harness, which feels more comfortable for me. Because of this, I will need a securely fenced yard for potty breaks and play time and a forever family who is patient and familiar with shy/fearful dogs so I can continue to blossom. I would love to have another dog or two in my forever home to play with, but no small human kids, please. They’re just too scary! I’m a healthy boy with so much potential. I’m being fostered in Jonesboro, MO. If you live in the Midwest and want a handsome boy like me to be your best bud, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt for more information and to start the application process. Applying helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can tell if we’d be a good match. Once approved, they’ll introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet. I’d love that! My adoption fee is $450.00.

RUMOR - CHICAGO, IL

My name is Rumor and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m 3 ½ years old and I weigh 20 lbs. I came to my foster home here in Chicago from a breeding facility where I was born. I’m still getting used to living in a home, so I can be skittish and shy, especially with people I don’t know or around sudden movements or noises. But as I relax, my silly side is coming out and I’ve started to chase my tail and to hoard toys in my crate. I’ve learned the routine here pretty quickly. I am potty trained and stay in my crate when foster mom leaves the house. I like eating meals in my crate too. I let foster mom pet me now that I trust her. There are other dogs here in my foster home and they have helped me to feel safe, like when we’re out walking in the neighborhood. Busy streets and loud cars scare me, but walking close to the other dogs helps. I’m very interested in chasing squirrels, so foster mom thinks that I’m probably not a good match for cats or small pets unless they are dog-savvy. My perfect forever home will understand shy/fearful dogs and have at least one other friendly dog to help me continue to adjust. I’m not a good match for little kids. I’m a healthy girl – spayed and vaccinated. If you live in the Midwest and are interested in a sweet, shy, pretty girl like me, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt for more information and to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn about you and your home environment so they can make sure we’ll be a good match. Once approved, SIRA will introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet. My adoption fee is $450.00.

JEWEL - JONESBURG, MO

My name is Jewel, and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m a beautiful 7-y.o. I came to SIRA after the commercial breeding facility where I lived closed. I’m glad that hard life is behind me. When I first came to my foster home here in Jonesburg, MO, I was so scared! I had never been outside of the breeding facility. My biggest comfort is the other dogs here. They help me feel safe. Foster mom says I’m a very good girl – a perfect little Jewel! I never make any noise or trouble. There are cats here and I never bother them. When my foster family goes out, I’m fine on my own. Honestly, I prefer when the humans aren’t around. You see, the people where I used to live were not nice it’s hard for me to trust. But I do like it here. There is a big fenced yard where I play with the other dogs. I’ve started to chase them and when the humans aren’t looking, I’ll relax and act silly. I’m a healthy girl – 28 lbs, spayed and vaccinated. During my spay surgery, I had a bad reaction to the anesthesia and the vet recommends no future anesthesia if possible. My perfect forever home will need to be patient and understanding, because I may never be an affectionate or trusting dog. I’m truly happy when I’m with other dogs. I’ll need at least one nice dog to be my friend and help me feel safe. I’ll need a securely fenced yard too. Foster mom has tried and tried to get me to walk on a leash and I just freeze. A quiet adults-only home (no shared walls) will be best for me. No children – they scare me too much. Experience with shy/fearful dogs will help, and my forever family will need to guard against escapes and door bolting. If you live in the Midwest and can give me a place where I can relax and feel safe, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn about you and your home so they can make sure we’ll be a good match. Once approved, they’ll introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet! My adoption fee is $350.00.

FOXIE GIRL - JONESBURG, MO

My name is Foxie Girl and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m 8 y.o. and weigh 32 lbs. I came to my foster home here in Jonesburg, MO, from a commercial breeding facility where I worked hard making puppies. I’m a shy girl, especially around humans I don’t know well. You see, where I came from, humans were scary and not very kind and gentle. But here in my foster home, things are different! My foster mom and dad are so nice to me and patient. They tell me how pretty I am and what a good girl I am! They are helping me to adjust to this new way of life and I’m starting to relax and let my personality come out. I love to explore the fenced yard here in my foster home. There are other dogs here and that helps me feel safe. I’m learning how to play with them. I’m good with the other dogs here and even with the resident cats. I haven’t been tempted to chase them at all. I’m even starting to learn how to walk on a leash! Foster mom says I’m doing really well, but I am not quite ready for adventures in the neighborhood. Sudden movements and loud noises will spook me. My perfect forever home will have a securely fenced yard where I can explore and play. I’ll need a resident dog to help show me the ropes and help me to adjust. Cats are fine too, but no small kids please (they would scare me too much). I’m a healthy girl – spayed and vaccinated. The vet who listened to my heart said that I have a grade 2 heart murmur. He said that I don’t need any treatment since it isn’t causing any problems. If you live in the Midwest and want a pretty, sweet, shy girl like me to share your home, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt for more information and to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA get to know you and your home environment so they can tell if we’ll be a good match. Once approved, they’ll introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet! My adoption fee is $300.00.

HARLEY - GRAYSLAKE, IL

My name is Harley and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m 2 y.o. and weigh 30 lbs. I’m a confident, happy, goofy boy who brings his whole self to the party. I’m not shy or skittish like some Shibas. Strangers? “Hi – I’m so happy to meet you!” Other dogs? “Yippee! Let’s play!” (I hope they like to wrestle and play hard. I might not want to share my treats, though – and I might get jealous if I think they’re getting all the attention.) Kids? “OMG – I love kids!” I got to play with a 2-year-old who walked me around the house on a leash and also a 5-year-old. My enthusiasm might be too much for a really little kids when I jump up, but I don’t mean any harm and will listen well if I’m corrected. I’m a very good boy in the house. I’m not destructive and don’t have accidents when my foster family leaves the house, so I don’t need to be crated. One of my favorite things to do is to go for long walks. Foster mom says my leash manners are pretty good! I’m still getting used to my harness – and sometimes I protest when we aren’t walking in the direction I’d like to go. (Have you ever heard of the “Shiba Nope!” I can show you.) I’m pretty vocal and will tell you when I want to go outside or when it’s time to eat. I love laying on the couch and getting belly rubs. I came to my foster home here in Grayslake, IL, after my previous owner couldn’t care for me any longer. I’m a healthy boy – neutered and vaccinated. I’m pretty adaptable, but bonus points if you have a securely fenced yard and/or a kid or two that I can play with. I’d do okay with another resident dog as long as they are laid-back and friendly and don’t mind me wanting to hog the human attention. If you live in the Midwest and want the best boy ever by your side, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt for more information and to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home to make sure we’ll be a good fit. Once approved, they’ll connect you with my foster mom so we can meet. I can’t wait!! My adoption fee is $450.00.

DIXIE - JONESBURG, MO

My name is Dixie and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m 5 years old and weigh 17 lbs. I came to my foster home in Jonesburg, MO, from a pretty awful situation where people were not very nice. So, it’s not surprising that I’m scared and shy of humans and it takes time for me to learn to trust. Pro-tip: Freeze-dried beef liver treats really help. Lots and lots of them. Yum! I’m a smart and curious girl. I’m fast and good at playing keep-away in the yard. At first, foster mom couldn’t catch me even when she made me wear a long drag-leash. Eventually I learned that letting foster mom approach and pick me up was okay. I love to explore the fenced yard here in my foster home. When I first got here, my focus was to find a way out of this strange new place, but I discovered that it’s locked down like Fort Knox! So, I shifted my attention to enjoying the other dogs, especially another other Black & Tan Shiba that looked like me. I’d convene daily secret Black & Tan meetings (we’re sneaky that way) until she went to her forever home. Foster mom explained that one day it would be my turn. Well, I guess that day is here! I’m a healthy girl – spayed and vaccinated. My perfect forever home will be experienced with fearful dogs and patient as I learn to feel safe. My forever family will need to prevent escapes, since I’m a door-bolter, especially when I’m adjusting to a new environment. I’m learning to walk on a leash, but not yet confident, so my forever home must have a securely fenced yard. I get along well with other dogs and will need a friendly resident dog to help me feel safe and adapt. I’m good with cats, but probably not a good match for little kids (too scary!). If you live in the Midwest and want to help a petite, pretty little girl like me learn to trust and blossom, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to apply to become approved to adopt from SIRA. The application process helps SIRA learn about you and your home environment so they can make sure we’ll be a good match. Once approved, they’ll connect you with my foster mom so we can meet. Hint: Bring liver treats! My adoption fee is $350.00.

WILBUR - YPSILANTI, MI

Update - Adoption Pending! My name is Wilbur and I’m looking for my forever home! If you’d like someone to snuggle with on the couch - my chin on your lap – or a walking buddy, then I’m your dude. I’m 5 years old and weigh 30 lbs. I came to my foster home in Ypsilanti, MI, after my former family couldn’t care for me anymore. I was with them since I was a puppy, so I was pretty scared and sad. My foster parents swear that I didn’t do anything wrong. They’ve been helping me adjust and feel safe. I still spook easily, and it might take me a little bit to warm up to new people, but once I do, I’ll want to be near you and soak in all of the petting and attention you can give! I’m a good boy in the house. I’m potty trained and not destructive. When my foster family leaves the house, I usually hang out in my pen and snooze, but I’ve been left to roam the house for short stretches with no problems. As I’m getting used to things here, my goofy side is starting to come out, doing zoomies around the fenced yard or playing a bit with the resident dog here. At first, I wasn’t sure about the other dog and thought I had to guard my food so he wouldn’t take it. But over time, that has improved and my foster family thinks I’d do well with another nice, calm, easy-going dog to play with. It might take some time for me to warm up to them and trust them. There aren’t any cats or little kids here in my foster home, but I did live with kids in my original family. I’m a healthy boy – neutered and vaccinated. When I first came to SIRA, I was a bit overweight, but my foster family has been helping me get back to a healthy weight. I have a very mild luxating patella (loose knee caps). The vet says that I don’t need surgery, but staying at a healthy weight will help ensure that I don’t have any problems. If you live in the Midwest and are interested in a sweet, shy, pretty girl like me, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt for more information and to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn about you and your home environment so they can make sure we’ll be a good match. Once approved, SIRA will introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet. My adoption fee is $350.00.

PADDINGTON - JONESBURG, MO

My name is Paddington and I’m looking for my forever home! I’m one year old (as of April 19) and I am 25 lbs of high-octane LOVE! I came to my foster home here in Jonesburg, MO, as a baby from a commercial breeding facility. I apparently didn’t get the memo that Shibas are reserved and shy. Nope. Not me! I’m a big, friendly, exuberant boy! I think everyone is my best friend and must want to play with me. And when I play, I play hard! Because I’m a bit rough for some dogs, foster mom keeps an eye on me. There are cats who live here and when I was younger, I chased them. I didn’t mean any harm, but they ran when I tried to play. Foster mom thinks I’d be okay with a really dog-savvy cat, but I’m probably a bit much for most cats and small pets. I haven’t met any human kids, but I bet I’d like them. If they’re really little, I might knock them over accidentally since I like to jump up on people for attention. Okay - I do wind down eventually, and once I do, I love to snuggle and get all of the affection you have to give. My perfect forever home will be an active one with another young, energetic dog for me to play with and people to take me on walks and adventures. Senior pups likely aren’t a good match for me – I’d drive them bonkers! I am a smart boy who is learning big-boy manners, like not pulling too hard on leash. Foster mom says I’m doing pretty well. I’m a good boy when foster mom leaves the house. I am house trained and stay in my kennel to make sure I don’t get into anything I shouldn’t. I’m a healthy boy – neutered and vaccinated. The puppy mill where I was born suspected I had a heart murmur. But SIRA’s vet checked me out from head to toe and found absolutely nothing! They kept an eye on my hips too because they were aligned funny when I was little, but now that I’ve grown up big and strong, the vet says there are no issues! If you live in the Midwest and need more fun and play in your life, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA make sure we’ll be a good match. Once approved, they’ll introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet!! My adoption fee is $550.00.

MANGO - QUINCY, IL

My name is Mango and I’m looking for my forever home. I’m a puppy – I’ll turn 1 y.o. in December. I came to my foster home here in Quincy, IL, from a commercial breeding facility where I was born. I’m a cautious, curious and goofy little girl. My Shiba spunk is starting to emerge – when there’s something between me and what I want and have been known to hop right over one of the other dogs if they’re in my way. I’m a smart girl and learn quickly. Like most Shiba puppies, I love to chew EVERYTHING - including things that aren’t meant for chewing (like furniture and pencils). I’m almost completely potty trained – only an occasional accident if I don’t tell foster mom that I need to go outside. I love to play with the other dogs in my foster home and to go for leash walks in the neighborhood. I’m still learning good leash manners (I zig-zag and get the leashes all tangled up), but foster mom says I’ll be a pro with more practice. I’m shy at first with other dogs. I haven’t met any cats, but I like to chase birds and squirrels in the yard, so I’m not sure if I’d be a good match for small pets. I haven’t met any little kids, but there are teenagers here in my foster home and I like them. I’m timid around people I don’t know – especially men or groups - I’ll usually hide. I go to foster mom or to the teenage girl when I want attention and affection. My perfect forever family will have patience and experience with puppy antics and shy/fearful dogs. I’d love to have a nice resident dog to play with and to help me continue to learn and blossom. My forever family should be careful to guard against escapes, since I’m good at squirting out open doors. I’d love to have a securely fenced yard to play in and to continue my training so I grow up to be a well-mannered and confident adult. I’m a healthy girl – spayed and vaccinated. If you live in the Midwest and want a pretty girl like me to join your family, visit www.savingshibas.com/adopt to apply to become an approved SIRA adopter. The application process helps SIRA learn more about you and your home environment so they can tell if we’ll be a good match. Once approved, they’ll introduce you to my foster mom so we can meet! My adoption fee is $550.00.